Ebonyi Obidient Movement Condemns Alleged Coercive Rhetoric by Umahi

The Ebonyi State chapter of the Obidient Movement has expressed serious concern over recent public statements attributed to the Honourable Minister of Works and former Governor of Ebonyi State, Engr. David Umahi, describing them as alarming and inconsistent with democratic principles.

In a statement issued on Monday, the movement said comments credited to the minister, allegedly suggesting the use of force, intimidation or coercion in future electoral processes, pose a threat to free choice and civic participation. According to the group, Engr. Umahi, while speaking in Ebonyi State, was quoted as warning citizens who may not support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in future elections to “stay indoors,” with insinuations that force could be applied “to do good.”

The movement also recalled earlier remarks attributed to the former governor, including claims that “no opposition exists in Ebonyi” and that political challenges could only be made on social media and not physically. The Obidient Movement stated that, if accurately reported, such remarks represent a dangerous departure from democratic norms and echo memories of threats and violence recorded during the 2023 presidential election in parts of the country. Describing the rhetoric as inappropriate and potentially destabilising, the group warned against normalising the use of state power to intimidate political opponents or silence dissent. It called on Nigerians, Ebonyians and the international community to remain vigilant as preparations for the 2027 general elections begin. The statement further alleged that since the disputed outcome of the 2023 presidential election, there have been actions aimed at weakening opposition voices and eroding democratic safeguards. These, it said, include internal crises within opposition parties, selective withdrawal of security protection from opposition-aligned figures, and the perceived weaponisation of tax and state institutions against dissenting voices. While noting that some members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) appear confident of victory ahead of 2027, the movement argued that Nigeria’s political landscape remains fluid, with growing international scrutiny of the country’s democratic process. Reaffirming its commitment to peaceful democratic engagement, civic education and the protection of citizens’ rights, the Ebonyi State Obidient Movement urged political leaders across party lines to embrace language and actions that strengthen democratic institutions. The group also cautioned Engr. Umahi against repeated references to the narrative of “when it is the turn of the Igbos,” warning that such rhetoric has historically undermined genuine efforts toward an Igbo presidency. The statement concluded by calling on Nigerians to remain alert and prepared to resist any attempt to manipulate the 2027 elections through intimidation, force or the misuse of state institutions, including security agencies, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the judiciary.